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FORENSICSCIENCECanterbury

The UK’s European university

Undergraduatestudy

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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE ANDINSPIRATIONAL TEACHING

Kent is one of the UK’sleading universities,ranked 23rd in TheGuardian UniversityGuide 2017. In theResearch ExcellenceFramework (REF) 2014,Kent is ranked 17th*

for research intensity,outperforming 11 of the 24Russell Group universities.

Forensic science is the applicationof science to criminal and civillaws. Forensic scientists collect,preserve and analyse scientificevidence during the course ofan investigation, and can preventmiscarriages of justice.

World-leading research Research within the School ofPhysical Sciences at Kent – whichincludes Forensic Science – washighly rated in the REF 2014.Physics at Kent was ranked 7th inthe UK for research impact, with allof the research submitted judgedto be of international quality. InChemistry, 98% of Kent’s researchwas judged to be of internationalquality, of which 78% was world-leading or internationally excellent.

Our undergraduates work alongsidelecturers and tutors who are not justteachers, but researchers activelyworking at the forefront of theirfield.Current forensic researchprojects include novel methods forthe analysis of gunshot residues,

accelerant analyses to aid arsoninvestigation, the creation of newtechniques for fingermark recoveryand the creation of realistic bloodspatter patterns for trainingpurposes. Additionally, facialidentification software developedby researchers at Kent is beingused by most UK police forces andmany international organisations.

Inspirational teaching Kent offers some of the bestteaching, student support andlearning resources in the country.The science component of yourdegree is taught by the Schoolof Physical Sciences while thelaw component is taught by KentLaw School, one of Britain’s mostinnovative law schools. Both schoolsreceived good ratings in their mostrecent Teaching QualityAssessments.

We have strong collaborative linkswith forensic science services, localhealth authorities, and biotechnology,chemical and pharmaceuticalcompanies in the UK and Europe.We have a close association withInterpol and deliver many forensicconsultancies worldwide.

Excellent learningenvironmentThrough substantial investmentover a number of years we areable to provide our students with anexcellent learning experience. TheSchool has been commended bythe Chartered Society of ForensicSciences for our laboratoryrefurbishments, the range ofanalytical and forensic equipment

available for use by students,and for the support offered by staff.Our students appreciate the factthat the teaching of theory andpractical skills is fully integrated.

Specialist links Students on our forensic sciencedegrees are not only taught by ourin-house expert lecturers, but somespecific applied aspects of theprogramme may be deliveredby industry specialist lecturers fromgovernment departments such asthe Home Office and organisationslike the Forensic ExplosivesLaboratory.

The Chartered Societyof Forensic Sciences Kent has excellent links with TheChartered Society of ForensicSciences, the professional bodyfor forensic scientists in the UK.Many of our staff are professionalmembers of the Society as wellas practising within their respectivefields of expertise. We are oneof only a few universities nationallyto offer all our students freemembership of this professionalbody during their studies. We

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*of 122 universities, not includingspecialist institutions.

“I thought the course wasinteresting, challenging andenjoyable. The help at handwas excellent and I leftuniversity with an abundance of knowledge.”

Melissa SampsonFormer graduate, now Scientific Officer with Kent Police

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assigned an Academic Adviser,who is available to discussacademic matters, and the Schoolhas a dedicated Student SupportAdviser for any pastoral issues.

Year in industry At Kent you are given the optionof studying for a four-year degree,spending a year in industry. Thisgives you the opportunity to gainvaluable experience and earn asalary. It can also greatly enhanceyour employment prospects aftergraduation. To make sure you getthe most out of the experience,you are assigned an academicsupervisor who approves thecompany’s programme of workin consultation with your industrialsupervisor. For further information,see p14.

Professional recognition All our programmes are formallyaccredited by The CharteredSociety of Forensic Sciences for

all three component standards: • crime scene investigation • interpretation, evaluation andpresentation of evidence

• laboratory analysis.

Flexible entry levelsA foundation year course isavailable for students who donot have the level of scientificbackground necessary for directentry into the standard degreeprogrammes. The foundation year,which includes lectures in chemistryand mathematics, together withpractical classes, is taught entirelyon the Canterbury campus, andsuccessfully caters for students witha wide range of backgrounds andexperience. Providing you pass allmodules on the foundation year, youare automatically granted a placeon one of our forensic sciencedegree programmes.

A successful futureAs well as providing a first-rateacademic experience, we wantyou to be in a good position to facethe demands of a challenegingeconomic environment. During yourstudy, you develop key transferableskills considered essential for asuccessful career. Most recently anumber of our students have gainedemployment with major forensicscience suppliers with many moreheading off to work within the fieldof physical science.

For more information on the careershelp we provide at Kent, see p8 orvisit our Employability web page atwww.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/employability.html

encourage you to participate inconferences and professionalevents, as these help you to build upa portfolio of continuing professionaldevelopment. Combining academicqualifications with professionaldevelopment will greatly enhanceyour employability followinggraduation.

A global outlook We have an international communityon campus with 37% of Kent’sacademics coming from outside theUK and students representing 148nationalities, which helps to createa dynamic environment and givesyour studies an international context.

Supportive academiccommunityWe want our students to feel thatthey are part of the academiccommunity at Kent, and welcomethe contributions they make. Whenthey arrive, all of our students are

www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences

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SUPERB STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Our campus at Canterburyprovides a stunninglocation for your studiesand offers excellentacademic and leisurefacilities.

First-class facilitiesThroughout your studies, youare based at our scenic Canterburycampus, working with cutting-edgetechnology in the laboratory. TheSchool of Physical Sciencesis primarily located in a largeand completely renovated building,following investment of £10 millionover the last few years. As a ForensicScience student, you have accessto a superb range of state-of-the-artequipment and facilities, whichinclude: • dedicated ballistics andfirearms kit

• scene-of-crime facilities that allowyou to apply the theory of crimescenes, evidence recovery andfingerprinting

• document examination instrumentwhich can be used in thedetection of forged documents

• a full analytical suite for forensicchemical analysis, includingGas Chromatography – MassSpectrometry (GC-MS),High-Performance LiquidChromatography (HPLC), AtomicAbsorption Spectrometry (AAS),Raman Spectrometry, FourierTransform Infra-Red Spectrometry(FTIR) and Scanning ElectronMicroscopy (SEM).

Excellent study resources The study resources on campus areexcellent. The Templeman Libraryhas extensive printed and electroniccollections specifically aimed atsupporting the courses and subjectareas taught at Kent. There are alsoover a thousand PCs on campusand a range of support servicesfor help or advice.

Kent’s Student Learning AdvisoryService also provides informationand advice on all aspects ofeffective learning and study skills,and is available to students fromthe time they arrive at the University.See www.kent.ac.uk/learning formore information.

Beautiful green campusOur campus has plenty of greenand tranquil spaces and is on ahill giving a view of the city andCanterbury Cathedral. The campushas its own cinema, theatre, concerthall and a student nightclub.

Kent has a reputation for beinga very friendly university with acosmopolitan environment. Thereare many restaurants, cafés andbars, as well as a sports centreand gym. Everything you need oncampus is within walking distance,including a general store, abookshop, banks, a medical centreand a pharmacy. From campus, it’sa 25-minute walk or a short bus-rideinto the city.

Attractive locationCanterbury is a lovely city withmedieval buildings, lively barsand atmospheric pubs, as wellas a range of shops. The attractivecoastal town of Whitstable is closeby, and there are sandy beachesfurther down the coast. London isjust under an hour away by high-speed train.


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7www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences

you want to do. It’s really helped withmy project. We have cutting-edgeequipment – the scanning electronmicroscope is an expensive pieceof kit and it’s the best way toanalyse the samples I’ve got for myproject; without that I’d have to useother techniques which wouldn’t beas good.

What do you do in your sparetime?I am President of the ForensicScience Society, I’ve been amember all through my course andnow I’m part of the team runningit. We have guest speakers, socials,we go on trips. We recently wentto the Museum of London exhibitioncalled The Crime MuseumUncovered. Previously the exhibitswere only seen by police officers.It included evidence from someof the UK’s most notorious criminalsincluding Dr Crippen, the Krays,the Great Train Robbery and the7 July 2005 London bombings.

Any advice for somebodythinking of coming to Kent?Have a good look at the specificcourses you are interested in andthe modules and think what you’llget out of that. Don’t just go touniversity for the sake of it, picka course that really interests youbecause that will help you out ingetting a job you want when yougraduate. When I started mydegree, one of my lecturers told meto treat every day as a 9-5 job, if youconsistently work hard throughout,you will come out with a good resultand will have learnt a lot. Make themost of every opportunity.

Hugo Perry is in his finalyear, studying for an MSciin Forensic Science.

What attracted you to studyingat Kent?I’ve always been interested inscience. I couldn’t decide just onearea as my favourite, so I got to doall of them here because the coursehas a very strong science focus. This course is also highly rated in the independent university rankingsand it offers an applied direction to the science. There’s a good mix,practical, written and research work,which covers a broad range of areas.

How is your course going?It’s going well. I’m working on myfinal-year project; you get a lotof independence. It’s great becauseit gives me a chance to put all theskills I’ve learnt over the course ofmy degree into practice. My projectis on the contamination and transferof gunshot residue. My supervisoris an expert in ballistics and it’s goodworking with him. Also, a big part ofour third year, was giving ‘evidence’in a simulated Crown Court setting.You weren’t quite sure what toexpect at first, but it was a reallyvaluable experience.

How would you describe yourlecturers, and what about thelevel of support in your studies?We have experts from differentareas, very strong chemists,specialists in ballistics, DNA andcrime scene investigations. Theyare all approachable, you can goto see them after lectures or emailthem out of office hours and they’ll

always get back to you. Everystudent has an academic adviser,you also have a senior tutor and ifyou have any issues with anythingyou can go and talk to them. I amalso part of the peer mentoringscheme in the School. Kent pays forour membership of the CharteredSociety of Forensic Sciences andtransport to the annual studentconference, where we got to seehow relevant and up-to-date whatwe had learnt was in the real world.It’s reassuring to know that we’relearning about the right things.

What about your fellow studentsPeople come from all over and weall get on well. We’re all friends andwe all want each other to do well.

Which modules have youenjoyed the most, and why?This year, in particular, I’ve reallyenjoyed my project and the IncidentManagement module. The projectgives me a lot of independenceand I have greatly developed myunderstanding of the subject areaand I hope to contribute somethingto the scientific field. With IncidentManagement, we did a table-topexercise managing a major incident.It gave us a strategic perspectiveon how the different emergencyservice organisations: police, fireand rescue and ambulance, worktogether. I really enjoyed that. It wasa four-hour live exercise in real timeand we had complete responsibilityfor all aspects of the response.

What are the facilities like?We have excellent labs andequipment for pretty much anything

STUDENT PROFILE

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A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE

Kent equips you withessential skills to giveyou a competitiveadvantage when it comesto getting a job; more thanthan 95% of Kent studentswho graduated in 2015were in work or furtherstudy within six months.

Good career prospectsForensic science provides manymore opportunities for graduateemployment than in its traditionallyperceived role in the service of thelaw. Forensic skills are now usedin a wide range of professions andindustries, for instance at disasterscenes, within archaeology andin the food and pharmaceuticalindustries.

Recent legislation has stimulatedthe demand for authenticationof materials, and for experts andanalytical companies to carry outthe work. In addition, because ofincreasing interest and investmentin the subject, scientific liaisonofficers are being appointed bythe police service, and so theknowledge and communicationgap between the scientists andthe police at the crime scene hasnarrowed.

Our graduates go into areassuch as government agencies,consultancies, emergencyservices, local authorities, contractlaboratories, research or furthervocational training.

Gain transferable skillsThe skills you gain through thedegree also equip you for a rangeof jobs where the ability to analyseproblems and combine disciplinaryperspectives is required. So yourdegree will open up specialisedopportunities, without closing offaccess to general opportunities.

Careers adviceThe University’s award-winningCareers and Employability Servicecan give you advice on how tochoose your future career, how toapply for jobs, how to write a goodCV and how to perform well ininterviews and aptitude tests. Italso provides up-to-date informationon graduate opportunities beforeand after you graduate. For moreinformation on how Kent helps youto plan for your future career, goto www.kent.ac.uk/employability

Forensic Science

DID YOU KNOW?Four Forensic Sciencegraduates now work at theForensic ExplosivesLaboratory – part of theMinistry of Defence,providing scientific supportto the Police and CrownProsecution Service.


The campus is lovely and I reallyliked Canterbury as a city. Nomatter what university you go to,your experience is going to bewhat you make it, but I think Kent,and what it has to offer, made it easy.

What are you doing at themoment?I’m working as a Forensic ScientistSupervisor at Authenticate, acounterfeits analysis laboratory.I perform forensic comparisonsand spectroscopic analysis on adaily basis and write reports on myfindings. I’m happy to have founda job that allows me to draw onkey skills that were taught on theForensic Science course at Kent.

My work is extremely diverse andI have supported investigations fromaround the world, including China,India, Columbia and Nigeria. It isparticularly rewarding to know thatmy efforts contribute ultimatelyto public health and wellbeing,by stemming the flow of any furthercounterfeits on to the market.

Any advice for someonethinking of studying at Kent?The University of Kent is constantlyimproving, the laboratory facilitiesare even better now than when Istarted and the course contentenables students to decipher theirtrue interests. I moved from Londonto study at Kent and really enjoyedhow scenic the campus was, I alsoloved Canterbury and still visit thecity from time to time.

Kumaree Ramhitgraduated from Kentin 2014 with an MSci.She is now working atAuthenticate Limitedbased in Kent SciencePark, Sittingbourne, acompany that specialisesin the analysis of suspectcounterfeited goods.

Why study at Kent?I had always been interested inforensic science but was tornbetween an analytical chemistry orforensic chemistry course. As thedegree at Kent was promoted ashaving a strong analytical/chemistryfoundation and I had the option toswitch to forensic chemistry fromscience, it was obviously the bestoption for me. On top of that thecampus, out of all my universitychoices, looked the best by far.

How did you find the course?I enjoyed studying Forensic Scienceat Kent, there were definitelychallenges throughout the years,but I found that the course allowedme to develop as a scientist andas a well-rounded individualbecause it addressed soft skillsand non-scientific writing too.We were pushed to learn howto write lab reports, law essaysand lead presentations effectively.

Did the course live up to yourexpectations?I would have liked the opportunity tochoose a wild module to study butthe course structure is quitestringent. Regardless, the course

equipped me with the skills andknowledge to acquire a graduateforensic science position straightafter university, which is whatanyone wants after graduating.

Which part of the course mostinterested you?The Forensic Physical Methodsmodule, where we learned aboutdifferent evidence collectiontechniques, was fun but I mostenjoyed the chemistry module inmy final year, Substances of Abuse,as it gave a lot of insight into drugsynthesis and expanded upon theorganic chemistry I had alreadylearned.

What about your lecturers?Most lecturers are open toquestions and will offer guidancewhere necessary. However, theygenerally encourage studentsto come up with the answersthemselves instead of giving themthe answer they want straight away.

What did you think aboutthe level of support in yourstudies?There are workshops and thelecturers are available duringtheir office hours to offer extra helpand the demonstrators are veryknowledgeable. There are alsosupervisors and course tutors topoint you in the right direction evenif your issue is not academic.

What did you enjoy most aboutuniversity life?I really enjoyed university, there areplenty of social activities to suit arange of interests and personalities.

GRADUATE PROFILE

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CHOOSING YOUR PROGRAMME

Not sure whichprogramme to choose?Here’s a quick guideto the degrees on offer.

Forensic Science/ForensicScience with a Year inIndustryThese programmes offer a generalapproach to science, alongside anunderstanding of key legal topics.

On the year in industry programmeyou spend a year between yoursecond and final year workingon an approved placement.See p14 for more information.

Forensic Science witha Foundation Year This programme is for students whohave previously studied relevantscience subjects but do not havethe grades for direct entry to

Stage 1 of our programmes.It includes lectures in chemistry andmathematics, together with practicalclasses, and is taught entirely on theCanterbury campus.

MSci Forensic Science This is a four-year programme,which builds an advancedknowledge of the science andpractice underpinning modernforensics. You take modules onsubjects ranging from advancedlaboratory analysis and substancesof abuse to major incidentmanagement. This programmeprepares you for professionalpractice or postgraduate study.

Teaching and assessmentThere are approximately eightone-hour lectures a week, with oneor two days of laboratory classes.Laboratory classes emphasisedifferent aspects of the subject

and are assessed on results andwritten reports. Problem-solvingseminars also play an important rolein our teaching programme. Theseare usually integrated within thelecture programme and discussionsfocus on difficulties that you mayencounter within your written work.

Assessment is by writtenexaminations at the end ofeach year, with some continuousassessment based on laboratoryclasses and other assignments.You must pass all modules in Stage1 to go on to Stage 2. Marks fromStages 2 and 3 count towards yourfinal degree result, as does the yearin industry if taken.

Further information For further information on ourdegree programmes, pleasecontact: School of Physical Sciences, Ingram Building, University ofKent, Canterbury, CT2 7NHT: +44(0)1227 824392F: +44(0)1227 827558E: [email protected]

www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/prospective/undergraduate/forensic-science

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FOUNDATION YEAR

The foundation yearis a very popular optionfor students who, forexample, might not havesecured the gradesrequired to study fora degree in Chemistryat Stage 1.

We also welcome students whohave taken a career break and feelthe need for a refresher course toincrease confidence prior to tacklinga degree course. A-level material isrefreshed and your knowledge isextended beyond the level requiredat A level, ensuring you are ready totackle a degree course.

Please note that the module listbelow is not fixed as new modulesare always in development andcourses are updated yearly. Pleasesee www.kent.ac.uk/ug for the mostup-to-date information.

Modules you study during yourfoundation year are:• Algebra and Arithmetic • Chemical Reactivity• Graphs, Geometry andTrigonometry

• Molecules and Analysis • Properties of Matter.

All teaching and extensive practicallaboratory classes are on campus,so you can take part in all studentactivities. The teaching is mainlyconducted by academic stafffrom this University and consistsof lectures, example classes andlaboratory sessions.

Foundation modules Algebra and Arithmetic A degree in forensics requiresa significant competency inmathematics. Here, you are givenall the mathematical tools neededto embark upon a degree inforensics. These include: arithmeticcalculations, significant figures anderror analysis, which are requiredto present experimental data ina concise and scientific fashion.The module introduces algebra,including solving of equationsand their manipulation such asquadratics, simultaneous equations,and binomial theorem.

Chemical ReactivityYou are introduced to a varietyof topics that underpin chemicalreactivity. These include: theperiodic table and periodicity,transition metals and basicreactions of organic compounds.We also cover reaction kinetics,chemical equilibrium and solubility.You also develop your problem-solving skills.

Graphs, Geometry andTrigonometry All the underpinning mathematicalgraphing skills, required toundertake a forensics degree,are introduced here. The moduleincludes, for example, constructinggraphs using experimental data,co-ordinate geometry and vectors,trigonometric functions and theirmanipulation.

Molecules and Analysis This module explores chemicalstructure and analysis. We start withatoms and molecules and introducechemical equations. You thenexplore the shapes of organic andinorganic molecules using atomicand molecular orbitals. Finally, youexplore the energy levels of atomsand chemical compounds, suchas the energy required to breakbonds and form new bonds,and the energy released duringa chemical reaction. There is aspecial focus on hydrogen bonding.

Properties of MatterCentral to chemistry are the statesof matter: solids, liquids and gasesare introduced, and we cover thescience underpinning ideal andnon-ideal gases, liquids andsolutions, with a focus on thespecial properties of water. Weintroduce phase diagrams and howthey can be used to determine theproperties of a material at particulartemperatures and pressures. Weunderpin the module with maingroup inorganic chemistry.


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STUDYING AT STAGE 1

Stage 1 is the first year ofyour degree programme.It provides you with thebroad base of knowledgeon which forensic scienceis founded.


All students take the followingmodules:• Chemical Skills for ForensicScientists

• Fundamental OrganicChemistry for Physical Scientists

• Introduction to Ballistics• Introduction to Biochemistryand Drug Chemistry

• Introduction to Forensic Science• Molecules Matter and Energy• Skills for Forensic Scientists.

Modules: Stage 1Chemical Skills for ForensicScientistsHaving been instructed in the safeuse of equipment and chemicals inthe laboratory, you go on to conductset experiments in organic andanalytical chemistry. You learn howto write scientific reports succinctly,conduct literature searches and uselibrary catalogues, and to useappropriate referencing.

Fundamental OrganicChemistry for PhysicalScientists This module introduces and revisesthe basic concepts of organicand bio-inorganic chemistry. Youstudy functional group organicchemistry, reaction mechanismsand spectroscopy of organicmolecules.

Introduction to BallisticsThis module introduces some basicmathematics that relates to the flightof projectiles as well as a rangeof weapon systems that may beencountered during firearms-relatedinvestigations. Practical work iscarried out in trajectory analysisand ammunition identification, anda group presentation encouragesteamwork among students.

Introduction to Biochemistryand Drug ChemistryYou are introduced to the natureof drugs and the fundamentalsof medicinal chemistry. You gainan overview of the subject, whichserves as a platform for furtherstudy. You examine the importanceof the relationship betweenchemical structure, chemicalproperties and drug action.

Introduction to Forensic ScienceIn this module, you look at the roleof forensic scientists and theprocedures they are involved inat crime scenes. Topics include:evidence and the scene of thecrime; document examination;fires, explosions and firearms;

drugs of abuse, alcohol andforensic toxicology; body fluids; thepresentation of forensic evidence.

Molecules Matter and EnergyThis module introduces and revisesthe basic concepts of chemistry,including atomic and molecularstructure, properties of gases,liquids and solids, andthermodynamics.

Skills for Forensic ScientistsYou develop your experimentaland teamwork skills and receivetraining in incident-scene mapping,laboratory safety, communicationskills, experimental science, projectwork, error analysis, mathematicsand computer skills.

“We provide a trulymultidisciplinary experienceto students with teachingcontributions from lecturersin chemistry, physics, law,anthropology and forensicscience, ensuring the contentis always interesting, currentand supported by a strongscientific underpinning.”

Dr Chris ShepherdForensic Science Lecturer


STUDYING AT STAGE 2

Stage 2 is the second yearof your degree.


All students take the followingmodules:• Chemical IdentificationTechniques

• Criminal Law for ForensicScientists

• Digital Forensics• Firearms and Ballistics• Forensic Archaeology• Forensic Physical Methods• Inorganic Chemistry, Fibresand Microscopy

• Numerical, Statistical andAnalytical Skills.

Modules: Stage 2Chemical IdentificationTechniquesYou develop an understandingof the theory and applicationof techniques for chemicalidentification. You study symmetry,nuclear magnetic resonance, massspectrometry, infrared and Ramanspectroscopy, spectrophotometry/fluorimetry, basic diffractionmethods and electron spinresonance.

Criminal Law for ForensicScientistsYou are introduced to aspectsof the procedure and practiceof the criminal process. You gaingrounding in the concepts andprinciples underlying criminal lawand look at specific offences,in particular relating to homicideand non-fatal offences, which areespecially relevant to forensicscience students.

Digital ForensicsThis module investigates methodsof facial identification in relationto policing and security. It includesan introduction to digital imageprocessing, image analysistechniques and digital forensicsanalysis.

Firearms and BallisticsYou study a number of key physicaland mathematical concepts inballistics, which include internalfirearm mechanisms, aerodynamicsand wound ballistics. Practicalclasses include flight mechanics,firearms identification and ashooting scene reconstruction.

Forensic ArchaeologyYou gain an appreciation of theadvantages of using modernscientific archaeological techniques.You discover the scientificbackground to techniques suchas seismic detection, nuclear decaydating and palynology, and theirapplicability to the non-invasivedetection of archaeological remains.

Forensic Physical Methods This module outlines and definesthe scope and purpose of forensicphysical methods in developedcountries and encourages criticalthinking in relation to these methodsand their application. Topics studiedinclude crime scene management,interviews, evidential proceduresand witness reliability. You developyour knowledge and understandingof the major physical forensicmethods and your ability to identifyand present your findings. Youalso become aware of emergingdevelopments in forensic science.

Inorganic Chemistry, Fibresand MicroscopyThis module introduces and revisesthe basic concepts of inorganicchemistry. It covers some generalbackground and then goes on tostudy s- and p-block (main group)chemistry and d-block (transitionmetal) chemistry.

Numerical, Statistical andAnalytical SkillsThis module develops mathematicaltools and the critical assessment ofdata. It provides you with the basisfor understanding chemicalarithmetic, the quantitative analysisof reacting chemical and enzymaticsystems, reaction kinetics, and theapplication of statistics in a forensiccontext.

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YEAR IN INDUSTRY

If you choose to take ayear in industry, it comesbetween Stages 2 and 3.

Finding a placement Work placements are usuallyadvertised nationally and studentsapply by sending in a CV orapplication form. We guideyou through the process, givingyou valuable feedback on theplacements that are likely toenhance your career prospects,how to write a winning CV and howto hone your interview skills. We alsowork closely with a number of localcompanies which often provide ourstudents with placements.

Please note that students are notguaranteed a placement due to thecompetitive nature of the process.Unsuccessful students can transferon to our other forensic scienceprogrammes after Stage 2 withouttheir studies being affected.

Salary and benefits Students usually work on placementfor an entire calendar year. Salaryand holiday entitlements varyaccording to the employer you workfor. However, many students find thatthey earn enough to be able to savesome of their income, and this oftenhelps them in their final year at Kent.

Study and career benefits A work placement providespractical experience that can beput to good use in your final year

of study. It gives you a sense ofhow the theory works in practiceand improves your skills in manyareas. It also allows you to evaluatea particular career path, and gainknowledge of the workingenvironment.

At the end of your placement, youwrite a report of the work you didand, on returning to Kent for yourfinal year of study, present a lectureon your experiences. Previous year-in-industry students have workedfor Abbott Laboratories, CranfieldDefence and Security, GSK, Kentand Canterbury Hospital andProcter & Gamble among manyothers. In general, the year inindustry is very popular withemployers, because of the skillsyou gain. If your placement is asuccess, you may even be offered

a job with the same employer aftergraduation.

Keeping in touch with Kent To make sure you get the mostout of the experience, you areassigned an academic supervisorwho approves the company’sprogramme of work in consultationwith your industrial supervisor. Youryear in industry counts towards yourfinal degree classification.

DID YOU KNOW?The Forensic Imaging Groupat the University of Kentprovides digital imageprocessing services forbusinesses and crimeprevention organisations.Clients include Kent Police.


STUDYING AT STAGE 3

Stage 3 is the final yearof the BSc degreeprogramme.


All students take the followingmodules:• Advanced Topics in ForensicScience

• Analytical Chemistry• DNA Analysis and Interpretation• Fires and Explosions• Forensic Expert Witness Skills • Law of Evidence for ForensicScientists.

All BSc students take:• Forensic Science Project.

All MSci students take:• Advanced Forensic ProjectLaboratory.

Modules: Stage 3Advanced Topics in ForensicScience This module covers the very latestdevelopments and emerging topicsin the delivery of forensic sciencein the United Kingdom, Europe andfurther afield. Topics may include:case assessment and interpretationof evidence, Bayesian statistics, andquality and proficiency standardswithin forensic science, withreference to UCAS accreditation.The great importance of ethicalstandards and bias are alsocovered.

Analytical ChemistryThis module looks at a range ofphysical techniques currently usedin analytical chemistry and explorestheir potential applications. Topicscovered include: atomic emission/absorption spectrometry, separationmethods, ion chromatography, x-rayfluorescence by SEM, electro-analytical chemistry, and automatinganalytical chemistry.

DNA Analysis and InterpretationThe module deals with the latestDNA multiplexes both in the UK andacross the world, and demonstratesthe benefits and drawbacksassociated with new techniquesbecoming increasingly sensitiveto DNA samples at the trace level.Indicative content includes anoverview of forensic DNA typingsystems and their associatedprocedures, including DNA

extraction techniques and thepolymerase chain reaction.

Fires and ExplosionsThe investigation of causes of firesis one of the most difficult studiesundertaken by forensic scientists.This module includes the studyof combustion and explosion,flammability, ignition, and chainreactions. The forensic aspectsare illustrated with case studies.

Forensic Expert Witness SkillsIn this module, you investigatehow science is reported in themedia and develop your skillsin presenting scientific materialand arguments clearly and correctly,in writing and orally, to a rangeof audiences. To assist in this, youact as an expert forensic sciencewitness, discovering first-hand thechallenges this presents.

CONTINUED OVERLEAF

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Forensic Science Project(BSc only)This module provides anintroduction to research methodsand skills, and prepares you fora research career either in industryor at postgraduate level. It alsoprovides you with training in, andexperience of, communicatingresearch results orally and in writing,and managing a project from startto finish. In addition, you deepenyour knowledge of a specialisedarea of forensic science.

Advanced Forensic ProjectLaboratory (MSci only)You gain hands on experienceof complex instruments usedin forensic analysis such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Ramanspectroscopy and nuclear magneticresonance (NMR) spectroscopy.You also undertake a short researchproject, which enhances yourunderstanding of your chosenarea of forensic analysis.

Law of Evidence for ForensicScientistsYou study the general principlesof the law of evidence and proof,and are introduced to the contextin which the rules of evidenceoperate, namely criminal civilprocedure and the nature ofadversarial trial. You also considerfact analysis and the rules relatingto the testimony of witnesses,and the major exclusionary rulesrelating to hearsay, characterevidence and opinion.

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STUDYING AT STAGE 3 (CONT)

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STUDYING AT STAGE 4

For those taking theMSci programme,Stage 4 is the final yearof your degree.

Please note that the module listbelow is not fixed as new modulesare always in development andcourses are updated yearly. Pleasesee www.kent.ac.uk/ug for themost up-to-date information.

All students take the followingmodules:• Forensic Science ResearchProject

• Incident Management• Physical Science ResearchPlanning

• Substances of Abuse.

Modules: Stage 4Forensic Science ResearchProjectScientific research is at the forefrontof innovation and design, drivingadvances in many areas includingmanufacturing technologies,materials development, medicineand forensic science. The abilityto tackle problems and continuallyassess research project/experimentdirection are key skills and vital ifnew knowledge is to be contributedto a field. In forensic science,research has allowed for thedevelopment and validation ofnew methodologies, materialsand approaches which continueto shape and expand our abilityto collect and analyse potentialevidence. In this module, youundertake a research project whichgives you the opportunity to develop

key research skills and to gainfurther experience of scientificinstrumentation.

Incident ManagementManaging a major incident, suchas an air crash, a major chemicalspill, or a rail accident representsan enormous challenge. Thankfullysuch events are rare. However,when one does occur, systemsand organisations move immediatelyto minimise loss of life, damage toproperty, and to preserve evidenceso that lessons can be learned. Thismodule defines the role of statutoryand non-statutory agencies inidentifying and responding tomajor threats and events. You areintroduced to the difficulties andchallenges associated with runninga command structure at a majorincident. Finally, the moduleprepares you for the role of courtreporting officer; you producean incident report which you thendefend in a tribunal environment.

Physical Science ResearchPlanning The creation of new knowledgeand innovation is no accident; itrequires considerable planning andperspiration before a new conceptcan emerge. Thomas Edison knewall about sweat: genius is 99 percent perspiration and one per centinspiration. And Einstein said thatif we knew what we were doing, itwouldn’t be called research. Thismodule gives you the opportunityto develop the seed of an idea intoa concrete proposal where allaspects of the intentions, schedules,collaborations and equipment

are worked out. The feasibility andexpectations of the research itselfare argued within a Dragons’ Denenvironment as well as in writtenform. You also critically review thescience case of others and learnhow the funding process operatesin the UK and elsewhere. You aretrained to argue your case forsupport, a skill which is transferableto work life in general.

Substances of AbuseIn this module, you acquirea theoretical knowledge andunderstanding of the chemistryand principles of analysis andidentification of several chemicalsthat are substances of abuse.These include: amphetamines andrelated compounds, LSD, cannabisand cannabis products, opiatecompounds, cocaine; productsfrom Catha edulis and Lophophorawilliamssi; psilocybin and psilocinfrom fungi and certain controlledpharmaceutical drugs.


“My four years studyingwithin the School of PhysicalSciences has been amazing!The academics are highlyqualified, great teachers whowork tirelessly to support andmotivate each and everystudent. The lab facilities andresources are excellent and thedegree itself is well structuredand extremely well taught.”

Katherine PonsonbyMSci Forensic Science

18

VISIT THE UNIVERSITY

Come along for an OpenDay or an Applicant Dayand see what it is like tobe a student at Kent.

Open DaysKent runs Open Days during thesummer and autumn. These providean excellent opportunity for you todiscover what it is like to live andstudy at the University. You canmeet academic staff and currentstudents, find out about ourcourses and attend subjectdisplays, workshops and informallectures. We also offer tours aroundthe campus to view our sportsfacilities, the library and Universityaccommodation. For moreinformation and details ofhow to book your place, seewww.kent.ac.uk/opendays

Applicant DaysIf you apply to study at Kent andwe offer you a place (or invite youto attend an interview), you willusually be sent an invitation to oneof our Applicant Days. You can bookto attend through your online KentApplicant Portal. The ApplicantDay includes presentations inyour subject area, guided toursof the campus, including Universityaccommodation, and theopportunity to speak to bothacademic staff and currentstudents about your chosensubject. For further information,see www.kent.ac.uk/visit

Informal visits You are also welcome to makean informal visit to our campusesat any time. The University runstours of the Canterbury andMedway campuses throughout theyear for anyone who is unable toattend an Open Day or ApplicantDay. It may also be possible toarrange meetings with academicstaff, although we cannotguarantee this. For more detailsand to book your place, seewww.kent.ac.uk/informal

Alternatively, we can provide youwith a self-guided tour leaflet, whichincludes the main points of interest.For more details and to downloada self-guided tour, go towww.kent.ac.uk/informal

Forensic Science


LocationCanterbury

AwardBSc (Hons), MSci

Degree programmes • Forensic Science BSc (F410)• Forensic Science MSci (F414)• Forensic Science with aFoundation Year (F412)• Forensic Science with a Yearin Industry (F411)

Typical offer levelsBBB at A level, IB Diploma 34points inc Biology or Chemistry 5at HL and 4 in Mathematics, orIB Diploma with 15 points atHigher inc Biology or Chemistry 5at HL and 4 in Mathematics.

Foundation Course (F412)This is subject to individualconsideration but evidenceof prior relevant scientific studyis required.

Required subjectsA level grade B or equivalentin Chemistry, Biology or HumanBiology with a pass gradein the relevant practicals, plusGCSE Mathematics grade C.

Foundation Course (F412)individual consideration butevidence of prior relevantscientific study is required.

Year in industry See p14.

Foundation year Passing all modules in thefoundation year programmeguarantees you entry on toone of our forensic sciencedegree programmes. Seep11 for more details.

Further informationAdmissions enquiriesT: +44 (0)1227 827272www.kent.ac.uk/ug

Offer levels and entryrequirements are subjectto change. For the latestcourse information, seewww.kent.ac.uk/ug

This brochure was produced in June 2016.The University of Kent makes every effortto ensure that the information containedin its publicity materials is fair and accurateand to provide educational servicesas described. However, the courses,services and other matters may be subjectto change. For the most up-to-dateinformation, see www.kent.ac.uk/ug andfor full details of our terms and conditions,see www.kent.ac.uk/termsandconditions

For the University to operate efficiently, itneeds to process information about youfor administrative, academic and health andsafety reasons. Any offer we make to youis subject to your consent to process suchinformation and is a requirement in orderfor you to be registered as a student.All students must agree to abide bythe University rules and regulationsat: www.kent.ac.uk/regulations

More informationIf you would like more informationon Kent’s courses, facilities orservices, or would like to orderanother subject leaflet, pleasecontact us on:T: +44 (0)1227 827272 Freephone (UK only): 0800 975 3777 www.kent.ac.uk/ug

For the latest departmentalinformation on studying ForensicScience at Kent, please seewww.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/prospective/undergraduate/forensic-science

COME ANDVISIT US

University of Kent, The Registry, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NZ T: +44 (0)1227 764000 www.kent.ac.uk/ug

To find out more about visitingthe University, see our website:

www.kent.ac.uk/visit

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